Hunter was born in Virginia and started her career at a McDonald’s grill after she graduated from community college in 1977.

Hunter later relocated to South Carolina, where she purchased a store in Moncks Corner. From there, Hunter was able to become an entrepreneur owning three franchises in Ladson, Moncks Corner and Summerville and serves as president of C&A Unlimited, Inc.

“Carolyn Hunter’s story is the definition of the American dream,” said Michael Boulware Moore, president and CEO of the IAAM. “She embodies one of my favorite sayings, ‘I am my ancestor’s wildest dreams.’”